Jessica Olson

Jessica Olson is a management major from Huntley, IL

Hometown: Huntley, IL

High School: Huntley High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2026

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received an NIU merit scholarship based on my academic performance and GPA in high school. I also received the NIU Executive Club and YPN Scholarship based on my academic performance and an interview process. The financial support has significantly impacted my experience at NIU by allowing me to focus on my courses with less stress on the financial burden that comes with college.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a teacher. I enjoyed the idea of running my own classroom and inspiring students to reach their greatest potential. I had wonderful teachers throughout my educational career and wished to become a memorable teacher myself one day. Although I am not pursuing this as a major, I have taken skills such as leadership, adaptability and teamwork toward my pursued major of business management.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in management with an emphasis in human resources. In my search for the perfect career, the human resources field stood out to me. My defining traits of organization and timeliness fit key components of HR. I am passionate about working with real people and developing a strong work culture. Through attending meetings with HR professionals, I have gained knowledge of the integrity and responsibilities within this field. Knowing that my role would greatly contribute to a company’s success excites me. I am eager to become an influential part of a company’s foundation. Not only would I reinforce a flourishing workplace, but I would also play a key role in recruiting like-minded, driven people.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Something I have found pleasantly surprising about my experience at NIU is how easy it is to get involved. There is something for everyone to participate in, whether a student organization in a specific college or a fun recreational sport or activity. NIU creates a welcoming environment that encourages others to further their involvement. This allows all students to explore their interests with like-minded individuals.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have formed many of my friendships on campus through shared classes. Finding people who share a similar course schedule has allowed me to gain friendships that carry on outside of the classroom. Mutual friends have also expanded my involvement within student organizations and have connected me with some of my best friends.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am a member of Women in Business Professions, a student organization that promotes growth through networking, community service and discussion of women in the business environment. I also serve as the marketing chair of the Management and Business Administration Student Advisory Board (MBSAB). MBSAB is a student organization with a board of 10 management and administration business students who represent student views by advising the department on matters in which students have a substantial interest. Through this organization, I was involved in a mentoring program where I served as a mentor to a lower-level business student. My involvement with these student organizations has greatly added to my experience as a Huskie. I have been the voice of students within my department in emphasizing positive enhancements in student involvement. I have also participated in philanthropy events and broadened my network with business students and faculty.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
My college department, the Department of Management within the College of Business, has most definitely helped me feel safe, supported and successful. I have created a strong bond with our academic advisor, Steph Horgan, and the department chair, Jon Briscoe. Both of them, as well as the management professors, want to see their students succeed and thrive. You form personal connections within this department and are more than another name in the gradebook. Overall, it is a welcoming environment that thrives on student involvement.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
So far, my favorite professor is Karah Osterberg. She taught UBUS 223: Introduction to Business Statistics. Although I am not a “math person” and do not find statistics to be thrilling, Karah structured the class in an intriguing manner. She prepared each lecture in a systematic way that left few students having to ask questions. She shares her passion for the subject matter, creating an engaging environment for all her students. Karah constantly promotes earning a minor in statistics and proves how the material is useful in many different careers. Overall, she cares about her students’ success and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
By attending class regularly, I have benefitted immensely. I am far more engaged in the material, since I know what is being discussed. I can ask any questions I may have if I am confused during the lecture or in any outside-of-class assignments. I believe students benefit the most when they are actively engaged and ready to learn by attending every class.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is Founders Memorial Library. My friends and I go there daily to study and get homework done after and between classes. I also enjoy grabbing a coffee and a sweet treat from Einstein Bros. Bagels in the lower level of the library to motivate me throughout my studies. My best friend and I have a Monday tradition to get Einstein’s and study in the library after classes. I am drawn to this spot on campus because of the studious environment.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
I would advise a student who is researching colleges to make a pros and cons list. Writing out everything a college has to offer that excites you and comparing it to any drawbacks will allow you to identify any colleges that would not be the best fit for you. I would also advise incoming college students to make note of what they are looking for in a college, whether proximity to home, campus involvement or specific majors/minors you are interested in studying.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it is a major steppingstone in your educational career. College provides you with an immense number of opportunities. I believe it better prepares you for the “outside world” than starting a career fresh out of high school. It allows you to gain a degree and the necessary skills many employers seek. You can also meet new people and experience new challenges that will help sculpt your future endeavors.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
To manage my time, my planner has become my best friend. In writing everything down and utilizing a Google calendar, I can reference events, exams and other important dates. I feel accomplished in physically checking off my to-do lists so I can allocate time to friends and family. I also designate time to myself as I believe it is important to prioritize time each day to do something stress-free that brings you joy, whether it be for an hour or 10 minutes.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about events and services that are available on campus mainly through social media. I get alerts on my phone from apps, such as Instagram, notifying me of any events that are currently going on. I also receive a weekly newsletter from the management department and Steph Horgan on all the available resources and tools on campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I love binge-watching my favorite shows and hanging out with friends.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Currently, I work at my local T.J. Maxx during breaks from school. I started working there the summer before my senior year of high school. My hobbies include reading, playing tennis and traveling with friends and family.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
Thank you for allowing me to share my NIU Huskie story. Thank you to everyone who has supported and continues to support all of my endeavors! Special shout-out to my mom and dad for helping me get here! Go Huskies!